Automotive Supply Chain Makes Smart Move

Increasing visibility, better collaboration among the partners and innovation in the supply chain is vital for the dynamic sector of automobiles to enhance their competitive edge and meet world class standards.

- Twinkle Sahita

The automotive industry in India accounts for 7.1 percent of country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).The industry has attracted Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) worth $15.06 billion during the period April 2000 to March 2016, according to data released by Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP).

Auto maker Tata Motors is working to substantially increase its market share in the commercial vehicle segment in South India. Jaguar Land Rover, the UK-based automotive company, plans to manufacture Land Rover SUV (sports utility vehicle) for the local market and as well as for export, most probably at its plant in Pune. Japanese car maker Nissan Motor is in discussion with Government of India to bring electric and hybrid technologies to India as the government plans to reduce air pollution caused by vehicles. Fiat, Italian automobile giant, has announced its plans to start local production at Ranjangoan plant in Pune from the second quarter of next year at the launch of its two SUVs, Jeep Wrangler and Grand Cherokee. MV Agusta, Italy-based premium motorcycle manufacturer, has entered Indian market through a partnership with Pune-based Kinetic group with the launch of three luxury bikes, which will be sold through the ‘Motoroyale’ chain in Pune.

The growing importance of India’s automotive industry can be gauged from the fact that major automobile companies are expanding their footprint in this automobile frontier of the world.